About HIM Health Centres

Our Health Centres and PLUS! testing events in many areas of BC provide GBQ men and gender diverse people with HIV/STI prevention and treatment services. Additionally, our mental health programs provide our communities with access to counselling and support through peer counsellors who work with clients on matters relevant to their mental health such as loneliness, anxiety, coming out, racism, self-esteem/body image, aging, sex, substance use-related issues, and more.  


How Our “Host, Promote, Support” Model Works

The health and wellbeing of gay, bisexual, queer (GBQ) men and gender diverse people have long been pushed to the margins due to stigma and gaps in the understanding of these communities within both public and private healthcare systems. This marginalization spans multiple generations and has led to unique and intersectional struggles being continually overlooked, as well as evolving needs being unmet. As a result, there is a pervasive lack of trust in healthcare providers, their intent to offer support, and the policies guiding healthcare decisions in British Columbia and across Canada.

As a peer-led organization, HIM leverages the lived experiences of our communities and the strength of our community-informed programs and services. This unique position allows us to bridge the gap between our diverse communities and healthcare providers. By hosting, promoting, and supporting health services at our Health Centres, we can re-establish trust between our communities and public health institutions. This also enables us to advocate more effectively for the specific needs of our communities in an environment free from prejudice and stigma.


The Impact of HIM Health Centres

Through our Host, Promote, Support model, and our collaborations with local Health Authority partners across BC, HIM Health Centres and PLUS! testing clinics and events, we are able to provide +10,000 GBQ men and gender diverse people with very important STI/HIV prevention and treatment as well as mental health services in a safe, sex-positive, and stigma-free environment.

Our Health Centres also serve as critical hubs for the dissemination of important health promotions and interventions where our community members can find the latest and most relevant research-informed resources and tools for their sexual, mental, social, and physical health.

You guys are so great and friendly, this is a vital service to the community!! The very friendly and non-judgmental atmosphere here is very appreciated, great nurse and receptionist. Keep up the good work!

Anonymous HIM on Davie Client

“Before Coming to Canada, I had never been tested and was very scared my first time at HIM. It was a friendly experience; I felt safe talking to the volunteer and nurse about my worries. They didn’t judge me but made me feel it was ok to be myself and honestly answer questions.”

N. D.
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